Omaha Public Radio News

4:39 pm

Wed March 16, 2011

Sirens sound for Severe Weather Awareness Week

Omaha, NE – This week is Severe Weather Awareness Week, and warning sirens sounded throughout the Omaha area Wednesday morning for the statewide tornado drill.

The statewide drill began at 10:10 AM, but technical difficulties meant sirens in Douglas County sounded at approximately 10:40 AM. Douglas County EMA Assistant Director Eric Plautz says another test of the sirens is set for later this month. "On the 26th we will have all of our volunteer radio operators that are affiliated with emergency management go out and we will probably do two to three soundings so that all sirens will be visually inspected to make sure they sound, rotate, and that they're clear of any obstructions."

Plautz says now is the time to begin preparing for any severe weather that could affect the area this spring. More information on severe weather preparedness is available at www.weather.gov.